📖 Meaning
An epithet for Baili Xi, a man of extraordinary talent ransomed from slavery for the price of five ram skins. It later came to signify a person of great worth discovered or elevated from humble circumstances.
📜 Origin Story
During the Spring and Autumn period, Baili Xi of Yu was captured and became a servant in Chu. Duke Mu of Qin, aware of his talent, feared that offering a lavish ransom would alert Chu to his value. He instead sent an envoy to Chu claiming he would redeem his runaway escort servant for a mere five black ram skins. Once Baili Xi arrived in Qin, Duke Mu appointed him to govern the state, and he was honored with the title 'Five-Ram Grand Master,' eventually helping Qin rise to hegemony.
💡 Example Usage
五羖大夫百里奚辅佐秦穆公，终成一代名相。
The Five-Ram Grand Master, Baili Xi, assisted Duke Mu of Qin and ultimately became a renowned chancellor of his era.
🏷️ Category
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🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 五羖大夫
- Pinyin: wǔ gǔ dà fū
- Literal Translation: five, ram, grand, master
- Category: Status
- Characters: 4